Gibraltar, a British territory perched at the southern tip of Spain, is known for its iconic Rock, rich maritime history, and stunning views of two continents. Whether you’re exploring the tunnels of the Rock of Gibraltar, spotting monkeys at the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, or shopping along Main Street, knowing how to handle your money is important. Cards are widely accepted throughout Gibraltar, but cash can still be useful for small purchases and local transport. This guide provides key details on cash and ATMs in Gibraltar, including withdrawal fees, transaction limits, exchange rates, and card acceptance, ensuring a smooth and convenient visit.
Where to find ATMs in Gibraltar?
Gibraltar is compact, but ATMs are easily accessible in central areas, especially around Main Street, Irish Town, and Ocean Village. Most machines are located near branches of Gibraltar International Bank, Trusted Novus Bank, and local branches of UK banks like NatWest. ATMs dispense Gibraltar pounds (GIP), which are pegged to the British pound (GBP), and many also issue GBP notes.
Tourist Spots:
ATMs are available near popular attractions such as the Gibraltar Cable Car, Casemates Square, and the border crossing with Spain. You’ll also find machines at the airport, near cruise terminals, and inside major retail complexes. While cards are accepted at most tourist-facing establishments, small cafés or taxis may still prefer cash.
Rural Areas:
Gibraltar does not have a rural interior – it’s a densely developed territory. However, the Upper Rock Nature Reserve and less-commercial areas may not have immediate ATM access. It’s best to withdraw cash in town before exploring the Rock or hiking trails.
Best ATMs to use in Gibraltar for foreigners
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Gibraltar are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Gibraltar International Bank, and
- Natwest.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Gibraltar.
Don’t accept conversion at ATMs and withdraw only in local currency
In Gibraltar, some ATMs may ask – Accept OR Decline Conversion (also known as With or Without Conversion, or Charge in GIP).
– If you ‘Accept’ – ATM converts your money at ATM’s set exchange rate and you pay an extra % fee to the ATM for currency conversion also.
– If you ‘Decline’ – ATM will convert at exchange rate of the bank/card logo (Visa, Master, etc.).
So, to avoid extra fees, select ‘Decline/Without’ Conversion or ‘Charge in GIP’.
If you’d like to understand more, read ATM fees abroad: Charges to use cards at foreign ATMs explained.
Can I use a foreign debit or credit card at an ATM in Gibraltar?
Yes, many foreign debit and credit cards are widely accepted at ATMs in Gibraltar. ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercards, Plus, Cirrus and Maestro cards. Others like JCB, CUP, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
What are the ATM opening hours?
Most ATMs in Gibraltar operate 24/7, especially those in city centers and near border crossings. Machines inside shops or bank foyers may follow retail or office hours.
What are ATMs called in Gibraltar?
ATMs in Gibraltar are called “ATMs”, and signage is usually in English.
Language options at ATMs
ATM interfaces are in English by default in Gibraltar.
Don’t know the language? Use the Google Translate camera function to get a rough translation of the ATM screen.
What currencies can I withdraw from ATMs in Gibraltar?
Most ATMs in Gibraltar issue only Gibraltar pounds (GIP). A few machines – especially those operated by Raphael’s Bank at the airport – offer the option to withdraw British pounds (GBP) or euros (EUR). Otherwise, standard town ATMs provide GIP. Note – Gibraltar Pound is pegged at 1:1 with the British Pound (GBP).
ATM withdrawal limits in Gibraltar?
ATMs in Gibraltar have a maximum withdrawal limit per transaction of GIP 500. Banks usually do not limit the number of transactions per day.
ATM Fees in Gibraltar
There are many fee-free ATMs in Gibraltar. Majority of the Bank ATMs in Gibraltar do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders.
Apart from ATM Access Fees, there can be other potential charges to withdraw cash in Gibraltar. These are:
1. Currency Conversion Fees (Accept or Decline Conversion)
2. Your Bank’s currency conversion fee – Some banks charge the card holder a fee to use the card abroad. Cross check with your bank on what the charges are.
How to avoid high fees when withdrawing cash in Gibraltar
Use the lower fee ATMs in the country.
Use the ATM Fee Saver app to find fee-free or low-fee ATMs.
Opt for “Decline Conversion” or “Without Conversion” during ATM transactions.
Consider getting fee-free cards from your home country.
Avoid using ATMs at the airports, sometimes they have higher fees.
For a detailed guide, read Withdrawing cash abroad? 9 best ways to save foreign ATM fees.
Ways to find fee-free ATMs in Gibraltar?
Discover fee-free and low-fee ATMs on the ATM Fee Saver mobile app for iOS and Android. This app provides ATM PINs and details of leading bank ATMs such as ATM fees and withdrawal limits for foreign cardholders at ATMs in Gibraltar. Moreover, its simple fee calculator helps you determine exact withdrawal charges. You can also find cash tips and tricks on the app for 160+ countries including Gibraltar. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Download ATM Fee Saver now.
Safety at ATMs
Gibraltar is considered a very safe destination, with low levels of crime. ATMs are widely available and generally safe to use. That said, it’s still advisable to use machines located at bank branches or in busy public areas rather than isolated spots. While ATM fraud is rare, standard precautions apply – shield your PIN, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t accept help from strangers. Keeping an eye on your bank account throughout your trip is always a good idea.
FAQs
What to do if an ATM takes your card?
If an ATM in Gibraltar takes your card, contact the bank (if you used an ATM inside a bank branch), they may retreive your card if you have proof of identity. You can also contact the bank’s helpline but they usually retreive and resend new cards only for their own customers. If so, you’ll need to contact your own bank and ask them to deliver a new card at home or abroad.
Fee-free ATMs and possible to withdraw cash free of cost at ATMs in Gibraltar?
Yes, its possible. There are many fee-free ATMs in Gibraltar. Majority of the Bank ATMs in Gibraltar do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders.
Foreign cards from US, UK, India, China, Europe, Australia accepted at ATMs in Gibraltar?
Yes. ATMs in major cities in Gibraltar and international hotel chains accept many types of international cards.
Bitcoin ATMs?
There are no Bitcoin ATMs currently operating in Gibraltar. Earlier installations (e.g. at the World Trade Center) have since been removed; current public directories list zero active machines.
Foreign bank ATMs’ presence in Gibraltar
- Bank of America: No, Bank of America does not operate ATMs here.
- Citibank: No, Citibank is not present in Gibraltar.
- Barclays: No, Barclays does not operate ATMs here (though linked via partner alliances).
- HSBC: No, HSBC does not maintain consumer ATMs in Gibraltar.
- Standard Chartered: No, Standard Chartered does not operate ATMs here.
